I’m saying Good-bye after 22 years!
Retirement comes the end of July for Barb Malich, CEO. As I look back over the years it is with very mixed emotions—looking back at how far we have come, I’m filled with pride. It has been a tremendous privilege to work with such amazing people – the PCHS staff, many Boards of Directors, and with my colleagues from community health centers across the state.
Watching this chapter of my life close—amidst a period of tremendous growth and development for PCHS is daunting. A new PCHS dental program is opening in late summer in Port Orchard, the administrative offices are going to consolidate and relocate to the 2nd floor in the KPS building—which will then lead to some additional space for our incredibly effective integrated Behavioral Health and Chemical Dependency screening/treatment programs.
It feels like I am walking out on a work in progress, but that has always been the story for PCHS. I walked in on a work in progress 22 years ago….and just look at what we have accomplished!
PCHS is driven by the mission “to provide accessible, affordable, compassionate, quality health care services to our community” and accelerated by the vision that “PCHS is a premier Medical Home providing exceptional individualized health care”.
I was always particularly focused on reflecting our core values –to be Patient Driven, Respectful, and Empathic—and I am deeply committed to our GUIDING PRINCIPLE “To see and value every person who comes through our doors”.
It has been amazing over these 22 years to lead PCHS through unstoppable growth from a single site on Pacific Avenue in Bremerton to five beautiful clinics across the county. I take tremendous pride in the fact we achieved accreditation with AAAHC on the first try with NO findings. The spirit of quality, safety and commitment are reflected in every patient visit we provide. But what has been most amazing, to witness, is the pride in our achievements reflected in the most incredible staff of any health care facility—anywhere! What a team!
Patients will continue to demand more services and our capacity to respond be measured by continued growth. As a result, the health of the community will improve unabated. PCHS saw a huge jump over the past two years in patients served as the full benefits of the Affordable Care Act became reality in Kitsap County. With coverage for so many Kitsap residents comes regular care, screening, support, and improved health outcomes because of access to preventive care. The challenges will continue be overwhelming at times as healthcare access and health care economics drives changes for our community. “Transformed” is the operative word for the future of healthcare in Kitsap County!
PCHS is on the right track—now the leadership baton passes to Jennifer Kreidler-Moss, PharmD, CEO, and a new era for PCHS will begin. I will miss it all, but I’m very excited to see what my future holds! Until we meet again!
Barb